Iowa GOP seeks leader for revival

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) -- Iowa Republican leaders will gather Saturday to pick a new chairman, a choice that comes after an intense internal debate about the party's direction.

Although Republicans acknowledge their poor showing in the last election, they disagree over how to recover in time to field an opponent to Democratic Gov. Chet Culver in 2010 and reverse losses in the Legislature.

At least six people are competing for the post. All have strong conservative credentials but none has extensive experience in organizing.

Some Republicans say improving the GOP's organization is key because Democrats have created a better voter registration and turnout effort.

The choice for a chairman will be made by the party's 17-member state Central Committee.